This is a new challenge for many of us— but one that we can thrive through together.
Sync communication
Video calls - i.e. actually talking to each other - is a central part of getting work done for now. We have this via zoom, other virtual meeting pages (whereby.com), whatsapp or via phone. We need to ensure that meetings are purposeful
Decision meetings
'Decision meetings' describes meetings that don't fit neatly into a pre-determined team meeting.
The goal is the make exceptionally purposeful decisions in a short amount of time.
- The 'sponsor' of the meeting writes up the issue, the objective for the meeting, the suggested solution and pros and cons prior to the meeting.
- The extra effort and work by one person creates better decisions and net savings in time and energy across the whole group. It also means the argument can be shared and found later.
- The ideal world: by the time of the meeting, there are few or no questions. A decision can be made.
- The best way: write a draft, circulate it before the meeting, invite comments and questions, respond to all comments before the meeting. Participants take the first few minutes to read the responses to the questions and comments.
Whole team meetings
Once a week, the whole company meets to discuss important topics, share updates, lessons and give insight into their work.
- We start on time and do not wait for people.
- The Zoom link is in the calendar invite. The agenda is in the calendar invite.
- The call is recorded automatically, and all calls are transferred to a link on this page. If you can't attend, please watch the recording.
- Avoid scheduling other calls that clash with the all-hands wherever possible.
Tips for non-clinical video calls
- Try to have your video on at all times because it's much more engaging for participants.
- We start on time and do not wait for people. People are expected to join no later than the scheduled minute of the meeting (before :01 if it is scheduled for :00). The question 'is everyone here' is not needed.